Where Do They Get the Pristine Motor Vehicles Used in Older Films?

When filmmakers transport us back in time to recreate the atmospheres of past eras, they often rely on the cooperation of car enthusiasts and vintage vehicle owners. These dedicated individuals play a crucial role in bringing authenticity to the scenes by providing pristine motor vehicles that require no fabrication or special effects. Let's explore this fascinating process and reveal the keys to achieving that time-travel effect on screen.

Motor Clubs: The First Stop for Pristine Vintage Vehicles

The quest for accurate, pristine vintage vehicles begins at motor clubs. These organizations are instrumental in connecting movie producers with classic car owners who are passionate about preserving and showcasing their beloved vehicles. One such club is the Tucker Automobile Club of America, which was instrumental in the film Tucker. The movie required the cooperation of virtually every Tucker car owner in the USA, and the club's members were more than willing to have their cars immortalized on screen.

Other notable clubs, such as the Jaguar Clubs of North America and the Ferrari Club of America, are also frequent call recipients. These clubs not only provide the necessary vehicles but also maintain detailed records and lists of available vintage cars, including those that may appear slightly worn and weathered, adding to the authenticity of the scene.

Maintaining Authenticity: From Extras to Backgrounds

Creating a realistic and faithful reproduction of past eras not only involves procuring the right vehicles but also understanding the details that make them authentic. For example, a movie set in the 1960s should not feature pristine vehicles from the 1980s. Some scenes may require hundreds or even thousands of cars, and these are often not driven at all, brought in on flatbeds or moved by hand. This technique is both cost-effective and ensures the vehicles remain in pristine condition for the duration of filming.

Other scenes may require actual driving. For instance, during the filming of the TV series Mindhunter, I acted as an extra driver along with a few dozen cars. The goal is to find individuals who not only own and maintain classic cars but also have a deep passion for preserving their authenticity. These owners are often willing to rent their vehicles and may choose a specific actor or employee to operate the car. I was lucky enough to be chosen in this capacity for the Mindhunter shoot.

Specializing in Realism: Filling Period Environments

One of the most challenging tasks in film production is creating a more realistic entourage of period vehicles. A 1960s scene should be filled with cars from the 1940s to the 1960s, with varying levels of wear and tear to match the setting. Companies specializing in vintage vehicles often keep detailed records of available period cars, including those that are slightly worn or used. This ensures that the film's background accurately reflects the time period.

For example, a shop I know specializes in vintage bikes and has been called upon for numerous films, such as Super 8. This film suddenly needed a dozen or more vintage but used "Stingray" bikes, and the shop was able to provide the necessary authenticity by ensuring the bicycles were not pristine and had visible wear, adding to the realism of the scene.

Conclusion

Filmmakers and vintage vehicle enthusiasts work hand in hand to ensure that films set in the past are as authentic and realistic as possible. Motor clubs, dedicated individuals, and specialized companies all play critical roles in bringing these historical settings to life. From procuring pristine vehicles to maintaining realistic entourages, the process is meticulous and essential for creating an immersive cinematic experience.